African violets stand out as one of the most popular houseplants globally, and rightfully so. These petite, compact plants, known for their frequent flowering throughout the year, come in a variety of leaf shapes and colors. Recognizable by their rosette of dense, fuzzy leaves and violet-like flowers that bloom just above the persistent evergreen foliage, African violets are often perceived as challenging, but with a few straightforward guidelines, they can flourish indoors. With some experience, it becomes feasible to maintain these slow-growing plants in continuous bloom almost year-round and even cultivate them to the size of dinner plates.
Watering
Maintain soil moisture by using warm water and aim for elevated humidity levels. To prevent damage, particularly from excess moisture, avoid letting water come into direct contact with the plant's leaves—opt for gentle misting instead. Water from beneath or insert the watering spout into the soil during watering. Ensure the plant does not remain in standing water.
Location
African violets prefer warm and humid environments, thriving at around 70°F (21°C). Avoid allowing the temperature to drop below approximately 60°F (16°C). Make an effort to shield the plants from drafts within the home. Optimal lighting for African violets includes bright but indirect sunlight. Many growers place them under fluorescent lights positioned 12 to 15 inches above the leaves. If the leaves exhibit a light green color, it indicates excessive light, while thin and dark green leaves or legginess suggest insufficient light.
Soil
It is crucial to use a well-drained potting mix for African violets. Inadequate drainage can lead to root rot, a condition where the plant becomes waterlogged, and its leaves start to drop. Therefore, ensure that the plant is never subjected to standing water for prolonged periods.
Fertilizing
Feed with an African violet fertilizer every other week during the spring and summer. For the amount to use, follow product label instructions.
Pruning
The sole pruning required for African violets involves delicately removing any dead leaves. Additionally, once the blooms have faded, deadhead them to promote the plant's health and encourage subsequent blooming.
Propagating
African violets can be easily propagated either from leaf cuttings or offsets. Propagating from a leaf of an adult plant is a straightforward process:
- Choose a healthy green leaf from the lower part of the plant and carefully snip it off at the base using clean scissors.
- Trim the leaf stem at a 45° angle, leaving it about 1/2 inch in length.
- Place the cutting into a small pot filled with a mixture of vermiculite and peat, then water the soil.
- Cover the pot with a plastic baggie and position it in bright, indirect light.
- Expect to see new baby plants in approximately 12 weeks. Once they've grown larger, separate them from the original leaf and transplant them.
Common Issues
African violets, like all plants, are susceptible to common pests and diseases. Among the pests are spider mites, mealybugs, and cyclamen mites, which can be addressed by applying neem oil or using an appropriate insecticide upon detection. Diseases include fungi such as botrytis blight, crown rot, and root rot. To prevent these diseases, it's essential to avoid overwatering, provide adequate lighting, fertilization, and ensure proper air circulation. If your African violet is not blooming, it may be due to insufficient light, incorrect temperature, or humidity levels. To remedy this, place the plant in bright, indirect light or utilize fluorescent lighting. Maintain a room temperature of at least 70°F (21°C). To avoid spots on leaves, don't water on the leaves. Instead, water the plant from the bottom by placing the container in a bowl or using a self-watering pot to minimize contact with the leaves.